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No matter what your age, if you are flexible and open-minded you can always learn and develop professionally. As you continue to grow and are more alert to those around you, you can also compete and lead in a younger work environment. Be receptive to new ideas learn from those around you. The moment you feel you have nothing to learn, it is time to get out.

Continue learning about your industry and profession. Consider joining industry peak bodies or associations. Knowing contacts and getting a more holistic point of view about your industry increases your value to the company and enables you to provide insightful suggestions that will be noticed within your office. Soon, you will be recognised as a ‘go to’ person on topics that require expertise.

Finally, don’t ignore the relationship you have with your employer. Be candid – with your direct manager or human resources manager - about your goals and aspirations for the third phase (pre-retirement) of your career. In doing so you will need to familiarise yourself with the company’s strategy and vision so that you can ensure your goals are in alignment with those of the organisation.

In preparing for the day – perhaps 10 years away – when you’ll actually stop working altogether, you may wish to undertake a retirement planning course. It may be worth checking if your company offers a program like this to help you and your organisation manage a smooth transition towards your retirement and maximise your career in the interim.

Now more than ever, mature employees are needed in the workforce. Those who succeed and who compete effectively, will be recognised by their pragmatism towards the modern workplace and their ability to align a personal vision with the organisations in which they work.